Circo de los Niños: Circus Arts as a Path for Human Development
Circo de los Niños has consolidated itself as one of the most influential social and artistic projects in Banderas Bay. Founded in 2011 by the initiative of Gilles Ste-Croix, co-founder of Cirque du Soleil, and his wife Monique Voyer, the project began as an effort to raise funds for the EntreAmigos Community Education Center. That first performance (“When Dreams Didn’t Exist Yet”) marked the beginning of an initiative that understood circus arts not as mere entertainment, but as a profound path for human development.
“In addition to offering high-quality, accessible artistic training, this project is a tool for human and social development.” —Itantehuitl Barona, general director of Circo de los Niños.
Jessica Lusk, Ricardo Leal, Itantehuitl Barona & Quetzal Morales.
With the support of international artists, volunteers, and Cirque du Soleil’s Cirque du Monde program, this organization evolved into a formal school in 2014-2015, when its current warehouses were renovated and a specialized space for dance and circus arts was created.
Monique Voyer & Gilles Ste-Croix, founders of Circo de los Niños.
Today, Circo de los Niños operates with four main programs that cater to all ages: The Kids Circus School offers evening training in acrobatics, dance, juggling, and aerial techniques; the Adults Training bring together a diverse audience that finds a space for wellness through movement; the Circus for All project brings free workshops to underserved communities; and the Compañía Madrugada (Dawn Company), comprised of young people with more than a decade of experience, participates in professional events both within and outside the region.
General director Itantehuitl Barona, who dedicated eight years to teaching aerials before assuming the leadership role, explains: “The impact is palpable: for children, the circus becomes a daily exercise in teamwork, tolerance, creativity, and coexistence. For adults, it functions as a bridge to physical and emotional well-being.”
Its most prominent event is the Annual Fundraising Show, which features more than 40 children on stage. Usually held in late March, this show brings together parents, local businesses, and volunteers, who combine efforts to make this grand performance possible.
Circo de los Niños looks to the future with a clear vision: to strengthen its social program and continue professionalizing the performing arts in the region.
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